When Katy Perry announced her departure from "American Idol," Carrie Underwood was the obvious pick to join the judging panel, according to showrunner Megan Michaels Wolflick, saying "all roads led to Carrie.
American Idol returned to ABC on Sunday for its 23rd season, with former champion Carrie Underwood joining the judging panel in place of Katy Perry.
Carrie Underwood was given an iconic new nickname by fans as she made her judging debut on American Idol. American Idol kicked off its 23rd season Sunday night, bringing a fresh wave of talent and a major shake-up at the judges' table.
The Season 23 premiere of American Idol was all about the return of Carrie Underwood. The Season 4 champ officially took her seat on the judges' panel next to Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, 20 years after she won the reality TV singing competition in 2005.